By Marie-Therese Nanlong

Jos – The 3 Division Chapter of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association, NAOWA has unveiled a recreational park and named it after Mariya Abiodun Lagbaja, the wife of the former Chief of Army Staff, COAS, Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja who died recently.

The Chairperson of the NAOWA 3 Division Chapter, Fibishola Abubakar, who is also the wife of the General Officer Commanding, GOC, 3 Division Nigerian Army, Rukuba, near Jos, said the park is a symbol of the commitment to providing a nurturing environment for children and a place for relaxation for adults.

Commissioning the facility at the weekend at the headquarters of the 3 Division, Maxwell Khobe Cantonment, Rukuba, the GOC, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar who doubles as the Commander, Operation Safe Haven, OpSH, Jos said the gesture reflects the commitment to the welfare and well-being of troops, their families, and the community that surrounds the Cantonment.

The GOC said, “This significant occasion, marks not only the unveiling of a remarkable memorial facility, but also reflects our commitment to the welfare and well-being of our troops and their families, as well as the supportive community that surrounds us.

“The establishment of this park is a testament to our dedication to improving the quality of life for our personnel and their families. Given that the nearest recreational facility is over 30-minutes drive away, the creation of this park is both timely and essential.

“It provides a space for relaxation, recreation, and family bonding, elements that are crucial for maintaining the morale and mental health of our dear troops.”

He added that over the years, there had been various strategies to enhance the welfare of troops and such ranged from the renovation of soldiers’ accommodations to constructing new ones and even awarding electric motorcycles to best-performing soldiers, and the focus has consistently been on recognizing and rewarding the hard work and sacrifice of personnel.

Major General Abubakar noted the initiatives are in line with the command philosophy of the COAS, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, which emphasizes sound administration through the welfare of troops as well as the reward and sanction system.

He commended the Chairperson of NAOWA, Mrs. Fibishola Abubakar, for setting up the memorial recreational park in honour of the former President of the NAOWA, Mrs. Mariya Lagbaja and stressed Mrs. Lagbaja’s leadership significantly impacted the living standards of troops’ families during her stewardship.

The GOC recalled the late Lt. Gen. Lagbaja’s legacy of service and dedication to the 3 Division in particular and Plateau State in general saying it will forever remain indelible.

“Today is not just about inaugurating a park; it’s about laying a solid foundation laced with memories for future endeavours that prioritize the welfare of our military families in line with the vision of our forebearers.This facility is a legacy project, part of a series of initiatives we have launched to ensure that our personnel feel supported in their duties across the nation.

“We must ensure that while our soldiers are deployed to fulfill their constitutional responsibilities, their families are nurtured and cared for in environments that promote happiness and well-being… I urge you to see this park as a new reason to celebrate. Let us find joy in our togetherness and our shared memories,” he stressed.

Earlier, the NAOWA Chairperson, Mrs. Abubakar, who also unveiled a football team, said, “This park is more than just a space. It is a symbol of our commitment to providing a nurturing environment for our children and a place for relaxation for adults. Our barrack, though distant from the town, is rich in community spirit. The park was created to offer our children a safe and joyful place to play, learn, and grow. It is a sanctuary where imagination can soar and friendship can blossom.

“We are also proud to unveil the NAOWA team, comprising of the children from both NAOWA and Nigerian Army Soldiers’ Wives Association, NASWA. This team embodies community, teamwork, and sportsmanship through football; our children will end discipline, cooperation, and perseverance, strengthening the bond within our communities.”

She maintained that children are the heart of the community, and their smiles and energy add value to daily living. She called for the continued nurturing of the space and one another to build a community where every child can thrive, and unity and love prevail.

The park has diverse facilities, including a synthetic football pitch, a play area, a swimming pool, a volleyball court, a basketball court, a handball court, a badminton court, a lawn tennis court, a restaurant, electric bikes, bouncing castles, gazebos, and others.